As an essential part of good health, a strong immune system helps fight off illnesses and infections. However, a person’s immune system starts to weaken as they age. When responding to infections, it becomes less efficient. Fortunately, healthy living strategies and a wholesome lifestyle can improve the well-being of your immune system. This way, it will fight off and prevent disease.
For residents living in 55+ retirement communities in Loxahatchee, FL, we’re going to offer a collection of crucial immune boosters. With the following advice, your immune system can be strengthened and your health improved as a result. These suggestions should be followed by any care team members as well as residents in Florida’s retirement communities. It’s important not only for the residents of a community to stay safe and healthy but for the people who care for them as well.
Still a Smoker? Quit!
We will not dwell on this topic. You’ve heard it all before. But if you haven’t already quit smoking, it’s time to give it your best effort. The flu, colds, and various viruses are better avoided with an immune system not harmed by smoking.
Moderate Alcohol Consumption
This is another topic that’s likely been discussed to excess. But, your immune system can be weakened by excessive consumption of alcohol. Roughly 1 to 2 drinks a day should be your limit.
Hydration Is Essential
To stay adequately hydrated, incorporate the following suggestions into your day:
- Keep a water bottle handy so you can sip it throughout the day (reusable bottles with filters are a good item to have).
- Mix things up a bit with caffeine-free coffee or tea, low-fat or fat-free milk, and low-fat soup.
- Drink a glass of water in between snacks, after every meal, and before every meal.
Get Enough Sleep
It will be easier for your immune system to respond to inflammation and infections if it is not hindered by insufficient sleep. What’s more, many chronic conditions and illnesses are linked to sleep disorders.
Stay Connected
Today, you don’t even have to leave your community to connect with friends and family. Consider using apps like Zoom, Skype, and/or FaceTime to stay in touch and connected.
Stress Reduction
Your immune system can be strengthened the better you manage your stress levels. Fighting off infections and inflammation is harder for your immune system if it is hindered by chronic stress.
Stay As Physically Active As Possible
Older adults can stay healthier, more independent, and stronger with regular physical activity. However, your immune system can also be strengthened by regular exercise. Each week, try to get in some moderate-intensity exercise for at least a couple of hours (or more).
To improve emotional and physical health, and boost flexibility, consider tai chi or yoga. You can get active, improve balance, and strengthen your muscles through participation in simple workout videos found online.
Eat Meals That Are Well-Balanced
A strong immune system depends on a healthy diet. To boost immunity, consider the following foods/nutrients/vitamins:
- Zinc found in beans, whole grain products, milk, poultry, and lean meats
- Vitamin E found in peanut butter, hazelnuts, and almonds
- Vitamin C found in some cereals, strawberries, and citrus fruits
- Vitamin A found in spinach, broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes
- Protein found in peas, beans, eggs, poultry, lean meats, and seafood
Vaccinations
There are numerous vaccinations from which today’s retirement age individuals can benefit. Some of these include the following:
- Flu shots
- COVID-19 vaccination
- Shingles vaccine and more
Handwashing
Both residents and members of retirement community care teams must focus their efforts on proper hand washing methods. Recommended times for hand washing consist of the following:
- After sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose
- Both after and before you care for someone with an illness
- After going to the bathroom
- Before engaging in mealtime
- During, before, and after food preparation
Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens For Retirement-Age Individuals
At Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens, the health and welfare of both the care team and residents are encouraged. Healthy meals are served in the dining room, socialization opportunities are offered, exercise is promoted, and more. With us, your loved one is in good hands.
For general inquiries, please phone us at 561-801-7301. For specific sales and leasing questions, call 561-316-4626. You can also fill out our convenient online form to open the lines of communication.
Better yet, schedule a tour to see for yourself all we have to offer.
